Monday, October 15, 2007

Christian spirituality is both overwhelmingly communal and intensely personal. As you read slowly and carefully through this book, we encourage you to think deeply about the questions and ideas presented. Following are some questions for discussion in a group, personal reflection, or both.

Chapter 4 – The Spirit is the Guide

* How do you understand the Holy Spirit and his functions? On page 31 a couple of passages are listed (John 13-16, Romans 8, 1 Corinthians 12-14). What are some of the things you noticed? Can you think of other passages that reveal something of the Holy Spirit?

* “In theory, Christians acknowledge the importance of having the Bible as the map for the journey, but in practice they tend to ignore it in favor of the direct intervention and revelation of the Spirit.” (p. 29) Does this gel with what you have been taught? Experienced? Why do you think this “direct intervention” is often perceived as being more spiritual?

* What do you think of the idea of “interpretative self-deception”? What are some factors that can play into this? Can you think of times when you or those around you have fallen prey?

Almighty and most merciful God, grant that by the indwelling of your Holy Spirit we may be enlightened and strengthened for your service; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.